Kitchens have long been the emotional center of homes- but home builders didn't always showcase them. "The family dynamic has mostly been centered around the kitchen for the last 30 years" said Tony Ellis, a professional kitchen and bath designer. "House design has caught up in the last 10 years, and that means in remodeling, we have been playing catch up."

A hot trend for 2020 is turning the traditional kitchen island into a statement piece, where function now meets form. Traditionally a prep area, kitchen islands are now must-haves for many homme owners...